The British singer addressed the issue during his concert at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
Sheeran told the crowd that he had tried to stay away from political issues because he wanted his concerts to be about music, unity and love. However, he said the situation had placed him in the middle of a difficult public debate.
During his speech, Sheeran described the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack in Israel as “horrific.” He also spoke about the suffering in Gaza and described the situation there as “catastrophic and unjustifiable and disproportionate.” He also raised concerns about what he called “systemic injustice” in the West Bank.
Sheeran also apologized for mistakes he said he had made while dealing with the situation.
“I've had to take and make difficult decisions, and I am making mistakes, and I'm so, so sorry,” he told the audience, according to reporting from DW.
The comments came after weeks of controversy involving American rapper Macklemore.
Macklemore was removed from Sheeran's Loop Tour after making pro-Palestinian comments during a performance in New Jersey earlier in September. Sheeran has said that the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the tour promoter and that he was not responsible for it.
The dispute grew after several other artists announced that they would no longer take part in Sheeran's tour.
Among those who withdrew were Lukas Graham, Finneas, Aaron Rowe and the band Beoga. Their decisions were linked to the controversy over Macklemore's removal and his support for Palestinians.
Macklemore's removal also brought criticism from different sides. Robert Kraft, the owner of Gillette Stadium, said the decision was connected to Macklemore's recent comments and what Kraft described as a wider history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery. Macklemore has rejected accusations that his support for Palestinians is antisemitic.
Before his Philadelphia concert, Sheeran had said that his shows were not meant to be political forums. He also said that he had personal views about the conflict but had chosen not to speak publicly about them.
Pro-Palestinian protesters also gathered outside Lincoln Financial Field before the Philadelphia concert. The demonstration took place as Sheeran prepared for his first show since the Macklemore controversy began.
Sheeran's comments in Philadelphia now mark his most direct public discussion of the issue during the controversy.
The singer is continuing his Loop Tour, with more concerts scheduled across North and South America.
